Old City Philly: Axe Throwing, Bar tour, and Salsa Class

Planning a night out in Philadelphia that mixes activity, local culture, and a bit of lively entertainment? The Old City Philly tour offers a three-hour adventure that combines axe throwing, a peek into Old City’s vibrant bar scene, and a salsa dancing lesson. With a friendly guide and a small private group, this experience promises a memorable mix of thrills, laughs, and authentic local flavor.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the chance to try axe throwing in a safe, guided setting—it’s a surprisingly satisfying way to unleash some energy. Second, exploring Old City’s eclectic bar scene is a real treat, especially with options like a speakeasy playing vinyl records or a bar boasting over 60 whiskeys. One thing to keep in mind: this tour is purely activity-focused, so it doesn’t include food or drinks, which might be a downside if you’re looking for a full dining experience.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of physical activity, cultural exploration, and lively socializing. It’s great for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers looking for a dynamic evening that’s different from your typical bar crawl or walking tour.

Key Points

• Three activities in one evening: axe throwing, bar hopping, and salsa dancing
• Small, private group setting enhances personalized attention and fun
• Great value at $38 for a 3-hour experience full of variety
• Authentic local spots like speakeasies and whiskey bars provide a taste of Philadelphia’s nightlife
• Active, engaging activities suitable for most fitness levels (excluding those with back problems)
• Opportunity to learn salsa from local instructors, with chances to dance to DJ beats or traditional music

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Tour

This tour is designed to be a lively, engaging introduction to Philadelphia’s Old City after dark. It’s perfect if you want to combine a bit of adventure, culture, and social fun in a compact evening package. Here’s a detailed look at each component:

Axe Throwing: Unleash Your Inner Patriot

We loved the way the tour kicks off with axe throwing—a surprisingly accessible activity that provides both a physical challenge and a lot of laughs. Participants are guided through safe techniques, making it suitable even for beginners. The thrill of hitting the target and the satisfying “thunk” of the axe hitting the wood creates an instant sense of accomplishment.

Real reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who ensure everyone feels comfortable and confident, often adding tips that improve your aim. Expect a friendly, supportive environment where you can cheer on your fellow throwers. The activity lasts about 30-45 minutes, enough to get a good feel without tiring out.

Exploring Old City’s Bar Scene

After the axe-throwing excitement, the tour shifts to Old City’s vibrant bar scene. This is where Philadelphia’s nightlife comes alive. Depending on the group size and availability, you might visit a speakeasy playing vinyl records, or step into a cozy bar like Mac’s Tavern, co-owned by characters from “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” adding a fun local twist.

You’ll enjoy handcrafted cocktails, with some spots offering extensive vinyl collections or impressive whiskey options—at least 60+ varieties in one bar, according to reviews. The ambiance varies from vintage and intimate to lively and modern, providing a taste of Philly’s diverse drinking culture.

While the tour doesn’t include drinks, it offers ample opportunities to sample and soak in the local atmosphere. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing stories about each locale that enhance your experience.

Salsa Dancing: Moving to the Beat

The night concludes with a salsa dance lesson led by a local instructor. If you love dancing or want to give it a try, you’ll find this part both fun and encouraging. Expect to learn basic moves in salsa, merengue, and bachata, suitable for even complete beginners.

The instructor creates an upbeat environment, often with local DJs spinning traditional and modern Latin music. Expect to laugh at your clumsy attempts and enjoy the rhythm with new friends. This part of the tour emphasizes laughter and socializing, making it a highlight for many.

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The Practicalities

All activities are included in the $38 price, which we believe offers good value for three hours of diverse entertainment. The tour is limited to private groups, adding a personalized touch that makes everyone feel more comfortable participating.

The tour starts at Kick Axe on Market Street—a central, easy-to-find location. Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, especially for axe throwing and dancing. It’s not suitable for children under 18, and participants with back problems should consider this before signing up.

The timing is usually in the evening, offering a perfect way to end a day of sightseeing or a night out in Philly. Since you book now and pay later, there’s flexibility to reserve your spot without immediate commitment.

Authentic Experience, Not Just Touristy Fun

What’s refreshing about this experience is its focus on local spots and authentic activities. The speakeasy vibe, the whiskey bar, and the salsa lesson all provide a genuine taste of Philadelphia’s nightlife. This isn’t a scripted, cookie-cutter tour—it’s a well-balanced mix designed for fun, social connection, and a bit of adventure.

One review highlights how guides make the experience engaging, sharing stories that add context and personality. “The guides were very knowledgeable and fun, making the night feel special,” one traveler shared. Another appreciated the stunning views of the city from some of the bars, adding a visual treat to the evening.

Summary of the Experience

This tour combines thrilling activities and culture into one compact package. The axe throwing provides a playful start, while the bar visits introduce you to some of Old City’s most interesting nightlife spots. The salsa lesson brings a lively, fun close to the evening, leaving participants with new moves and plenty of laughs.

The value for money is solid, especially given the diverse range of experiences packed into three hours. It’s an excellent option if you’re looking for something lively, social, and a bit different from standard city tours. Just remember: no food or drinks are included, so plan to buy a cocktail or two if you’re thirsty.

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to try something more interactive than just walking around or sightseeing. It suits groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers eager to meet new people. If you enjoy physical activities, good music, and local flavors, you’ll probably find this tour a highlight of your Philadelphia trip.

It’s not designed for very young kids or those with mobility issues, but otherwise, it’s accessible for most adults up for a bit of fun. If you’re a fan of dancing, drinks, and a bit of friendly competition, this tour hits all those marks.

Final Thoughts

The Old City Philly: Axe Throwing, Bar Tour, and Salsa Class offers a lively, authentic, and well-priced way to enjoy an evening in Philadelphia’s historic district. You’ll leave with new skills, stories, and memories—not to mention some good laughs. It’s ideal for those who want a mix of activity, culture, and social fun without spending a fortune or over-scheduling their night.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for a fun introduction to Philadelphia’s nightlife, or simply craving a unique experience, this tour delivers. Just bring your energy, good shoes, and a sense of humor—you’re in for a great time.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, especially for axe throwing and salsa dancing. Guides ensure safety and teach basic moves, making it accessible to all skill levels.

Are drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You can purchase beverages at the bars and enjoy the ambiance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and casual clothes are recommended, especially since you’ll be participating in physical activities.

How long does each part last?
Axe throwing lasts about 30-45 minutes, followed by bar visits, then the salsa lesson, making the overall experience around three hours.

Can I book alone?
Yes, it’s a private group experience, so solo travelers can join and meet new people.

What if I’m not a good dancer?
No problem. The salsa lesson is very beginner-friendly, designed to have fun regardless of your dance experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, and participants should be over 21 for the whiskey bar visit.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Participants with back problems should consider this, especially for activities involving physical exertion.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour start?
At Kick Axe on Market Street, conveniently located in Philadelphia’s historic district.

To sum it up, the Old City Philly tour offers a smart, fun way to experience Philadelphia’s nightlife in a relaxed, social setting. It’s perfect for travelers seeking active entertainment, authentic local spots, and a chance to learn some new skills—all for a reasonable price. Expect an evening full of laughs, movement, and good company—what more could you ask for?

You can check availability for your dates here: